Winter Cultural Heritage: A Documentary on Japan’s Living Traditions in a Changing Climate
Ice Chronicles: Tale of the Omiwatari in the Era of Climate Change
A Documentary project
Protecting Our Winter Heritage for Future Generations
Winter cultural heritege
under climate change
This documentary deeply explores the winter cultural heritage that faces significant challenges due to climate change, focusing on the beautiful ice ridge phenomenon on Lake Suwa in the Suwa region of Nagano Prefecture.
Once a familiar sight each winter, the omiwatari has become increasingly rare in recent years as warmer winters take hold. This change not only impacts the landscape but also resonates deeply with the local community, as the ridges represent a vital part of their identity.
Unfortunately, as climate change escalates, the preservation of winter cultural heritage around the globe faces daunting challenges.
Documenting this heritage is more important than ever, as we risk losing the priceless legacy left by our ancestors for future generations. This documentary also sheds light on the crucial role that snow and ice play in our climate system and the potential for irreversible damage if these elements continue to disappear. The fading of winter's cultural heritage serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for action.
By weaving together scientific insights and compelling narratives, we hope to evoke a sense of urgency around climate action. Our intention is to nurture a collective understanding and inspire society to recognize, prepare for, and take meaningful steps against the pressing threat of climate change. Together, we can honor the past and work towards a more sustainable future.
Omiwatari Ice Tradition
In Suwa, massive ice ridges that suddenly appear on Lake Suwa with loud cracking sounds have been revered for centuries as the path of the gods, known as omiwatari. This mysterious and sacred spectacle is deeply rooted in the local culture. This documentary uncovers the profound meaning of the thunderous ice-breaking sounds that accompany the omiwatari and explores the historical roots of the fear and awe that have surrounded the phenomenon since ancient times.
The dynamics of the ice in Lake Suwa have changed dramatically due to climate change. In this documentary, we embark on a journey guided by expert surveys and firsthand accounts from local residents. Our focus is to examine the relationship between rising temperatures, unpredictable precipitation patterns, and the frequency of the omiwatari phenomenon.
Japanese myth and tradition
Behind the story of the omiwatari
During the omiwatari phenomenon, the local Yatsurugi Shrine conducts a ritual of worship. This documentary explores the fascinating history and evolution of the omiwatari tradition, highlighting the unique relationship between the shrine and its community. It explores the seasonal events at the shrine, especially during the winter months, and examines the perspectives of both parishioners and their priest.
Beyond the Times - Miwatari-cho ice record
This documentary takes you on a journey through the remarkable transformation of Miwatari-cho into an invaluable resource for understanding our climate. Over the past five centuries, this ice record—momentarily disrupted at the end of Japan's feudal era due to modernization—has been lovingly reconstructed into a comprehensive database, thanks to the dedicated work of Dr. Sakuhei Fujiwhara, a passionate meteorologist from Suwa. The film beautifully illustrates how the diligent observation of ice at a specific location plays a crucial role in our understanding of climate change.
As we explore the rich traditions of this region alongside the breathtaking beauty of nature, our documentary captures the deep ways in which the environment has nurtured local communities and cultures throughout history. Moreover, the film highlights the profound connection between nature and the enduring wisdom and faith of the local people, reminding us of the importance of honoring these relationships as we face the challenges of climate change together.